TUI Holiday Atlas: Curacao – trending destination in the Netherlands

About the popularity of Curacao in the Netherlands, carnival in the Caribbean and holidays without language problems.

Marieke Mentink: Curacao

Marieke Mentink, Product Manager and Buyer for Curaçao, TUI Netherlands

As holiday bookings made with the world’s leading tourism group TUI have shown, European holidaymakers’ favourite getaway is the Mediterranean. This year’s number one travel destination among European travellers is Spain, followed by Greece and Turkey. Italy and Cyprus, which rank fourth and fifth, are also in vogue. However, the map of people’s favourite travel destinations also features a number of surprising spots. A complete overview of this year’s most popular travel destinations is available here.

We have interviewed our colleagues from Product & Purchasing about a number of holiday destinations and their rising popularity. In the next few weeks, you will gain insights into a number of destinations and learn more about the surprising favourite spots booked by European holidaymakers. Talking to Marieke Mentink, we are seeking to find out why Curacao s so popular this year, above all in the Netherlands. This year Curacao is the fifth most popular destination in the Netherlands.

Why is Curacao so popular this year especially in the Netherlands?
Curacao is a Caribbean island and a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Tourists enjoy the Dutch ambiance in a tropical setting. People on Curacao are really relaxed and and speak the same language, which makes it easy for Dutch people during their holidays. The island is suitable for many target groups, is easy to explore on your own and offers a lot of great beaches, good restaurants, bars and nightlife. Willemstad is especially interesting for those who are interested in culture and the Christoffel National Park is great for all nature lovers. The island is also a common start destination for a Caribbean cruise.

What is your task in Curacao? How do you contribute to the holiday experience?
I regularly visit the island to know what is in & out. I scout hotels for our guests and make contracts with the hotels. I also deal with offering our guests car rental as well as the excursions to complete the TUI portfolio and offer them a fantastic holiday. I also manage the on- and offline content for our brochures and websites.

What is new in our program in Curacao this year?
We have added the following new hotels to our portfolio: We added Acoya All Inclusive because there are not many All Inclusive properties on the Island. We also added Bahia Apartments & Diving at Playa Lagun with an own diving shop and Blue Bay Curaçao. which offers an unlimited free golf course and has modern and luxury apartments and bungalows.

What do you love most about Curacao?
The lovely and friendly people who make you feel welcome!

Can you tell us an insider tip? – What do people have to see in Curacao?
In my opinion everyone should experience carnival in February with Caribbean music. It is very colorful and you can have a lot of fun with all the nice people.When it comes to beaches, Playa Lagun is one of my favorites. It is a quiet bay that is very popular amongst locals. It is also good for snorkeling and has some great diving spots.

Describe Curacao in 3 Words:
Colorful, Relaxed, Unique.

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